Title

Author

Date of Defense

4-12-2005

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Dr. Mary Ann Stark

Second Advisor

Dr. Diane Hamilton

Third Advisor

Mary Baukus

Abstract

People who suffer from mental illness comprise a highly vulnerable population, and encounter adversity from two directions. Not only do they have to contend with their illness and the management of its symptoms, but they also have to brace themselves against the societal backlash and devaluation produced by the stigma that accompanies mental illness. Stigmatization can drastically alter the life chances of individuals with mental illness and have negative outcomes in regards to employment, income (Markowitz, 1998), social integration(Chan, 2004), self esteem(Blankertz, 2001), health care, insurance, and access to justice (Sayce, 1998.)